Half Moon rolls out the barrel

Regulars at the Half Moon pub in Kempston, on the outskirts of Bedford, are recovering after completing a gruelling Peak District sponsored walk of more than 40 miles.

They had decided to up the challenge by carrying an 18- gallon beer barrel.

The walk was dreamed up by customers, with the support of licensees Roger and Nickie McGlory, as part of fundraising activities organised at the pub.

"After the suggestion of a sponsored walk, the idea just grew," said Nickie. "We have fantastic customers who would do almost anything to support their local community. They threw themselves into this challenge."

The three-day trek was completed by 36 walkers, camping out overnight. They finished at the George in Castleton - another leased pub owned by Charles Wells Pub Company.

Sponsorship money is still coming in. The group expects to raise more than £5,000 for Ridgeway School for youngsters with special needs in Kempston, bringing this year's fundraising total to a stunning £11,000.

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